Raising a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be challenging. Not only do you have to parent your child the best way you know how every day, but many parents and caregivers opt for autism therapy services that require a lot of time and money, adding extra strain.

Understanding the support that’s available for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be instrumental in managing the associated costs and ensuring a good quality of life from childhood to adulthood. Let’s look into autism disability benefits and what they can mean for your child.

Benefits and Support for Families of Children With Autism

Having the support finances needed to raise a child with autism can be challenging when therapy, special education, and specialized care can be expensive, and sometimes difficult to find. Autism disability benefits provide financial relief that can help families afford these services and give their child the best possible care, without the overwhelming burden of how much it costs.

Disability Benefits with Access to Services

Autism disability benefits can also provide more than just financial support. They often help families gain access to a range of services for children with autism, like speech and occupational therapy, mental health services, and special education programs. These services can significantly improve a child’s development and quality of life and support parents as well. As a child grows, many of these services will help them learn job and life skills to increase independence as they enter adulthood.

Support for Families

Of course, autism doesn’t just affect the individual diagnosed—it impacts the entire family. Some autism disability benefits offer respite services, giving family members a temporary rest from caregiving duties. This can be crucial for maintaining the overall wellbeing of the family and ensuring that they can continue to provide the best care for their loved one.

Government Support for Children With Autism

Let’s go back to financial support for children with autism. It’s important to know that the Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes autism as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This recognition means that individuals with autism may be eligible for certain benefits, including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The primary source of federal financial assistance for children with autism is the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. SSI provides monthly payments to eligible low-income individuals who are either aged (65 or older), blind, or disabled, and this includes children with disabilities like ASD.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for SSI, your child must meet the SSA’s definition of disability for children, and your household income and assets must fall within the limits set by the SSA. The SSA defines a child as disabled if they have a physical or mental condition(s) that very seriously limits their activities and the condition(s) has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 1 year or result in death.

Application Process

Applying for SSI involves two parts: completing an Application for SSI and a Child Disability Report. The application process is detailed and requires extensive documentation, including medical records, school records, and a thorough account of how your child’s condition affects their daily life.

Disability Determination

Once you’ve submitted your application, it’s sent to the state’s Disability Determination Services (DDS) office. Here, disability specialists will review your child’s case, possibly consult with your child’s physicians, or even require further medical testing. The DDS then makes the final decision on whether your child’s case meets the SSA’s definition of disability.

Continuing Disability Reviews

If your child is approved for SSI, their case will be reviewed periodically to ensure they still qualify for benefits. This process is called a Continuing Disability Review (CDR). The frequency of these reviews depends on the expected progression of your child’s condition.

While navigating the world of autism and disability benefits can seem overwhelming, so being informed about the available options can make the process smoother. Remember, each case is unique, and eligibility for benefits depends on individual circumstances.

Help Your Child Thrive Through Autism Therapy Services

If you are navigating how to support your child with autism or other behavioral challenges, there are many resources available to help lighten your load. We at Sonoran Learning & Behavioral Services are always here as a resource to help your child learn new skills and reach their full potential, and to help train you as a caregiver to support them, too. Tell us about your child and we will work together to help both you and your child thrive.